Dandruff is a problem of the scalp in which skin becomes dry and flakes off, getting stuck in the hair. It can be very visible--particularly in dark hair--and is often associated with poor hygiene. But dandruff is actually caused by a fungus, and proper hygiene is rarely enough to eliminate this fungus--medications are needed to kill the fungus. There are several natural remedies available for this purpose.
Lemon
Lemon is highly acidic and high in vitamin C, which is excellent for your skin's health. This remedy can be used by massaging 2 tbsp. lemon juice into your hair, making sure to get it down to the scalp. According to "Reader's Digest," you should rinse with water, then mix 1 tsp. lemon juice into 1 cup water and rinse your hair again. Do this daily until your dandruff and itchy scalp disappear.
Salt
Salt can soak up the moisture that your head fungus needs to persist. "Reader's Digest" reports that ordinary table salt can be effective at treating dandruff--particularly when applied prior to a shower. Take some salt either in your hands or in a saltshaker and apply a small amount to your scalp. Scrub your scalp with your fingers, helping massage and exfoliate the scalp with the salt. This will agitate and free up dry, flaking skin, making it easier to remove the dandruff when you shampoo.
Vinegar
Vinegar can help eliminate some of the dandruff that remains in your hair after shampooing. "Reader's Digest" advises taking 2 cups apple cider vinegar and mixing it into 2 cups cold water. Rinse your hair with this mixture. Alternatively, apply 3 tbsp. vinegar into your hair before shampooing and massage the vinegar into your scalp, letting it sit on your scalp for a few minutes before rinsing.
Baking Soda
Use baking soda to treat dandruff by wetting your hair down and rubbing a handful of the powder into your scalp. Rinse your hair thoroughly and dry. According to "Reader's Digest," this treatment should be used in lieu of shampooing, since your hair can get dried out and shampoo will only compound the dryness. However, the dryness in your hair should correct itself in a few weeks after your scalp heals, and you will be dandruff-free.
